CARES Funding for Students

Knox College has received $664,035 as part of the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act to support students who have demonstrated need and are facing significant financial challenges due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Consistent with the guidelines from the U.S. Department of Education, Knox will distribute these Emergency Financial Aid Grants to federal financial aid applicants with the highest levels of demonstrated financial need. Most Knox students with a federal Expected Family Contribution (EFC) of $20,000 or less can expect a payment ranging from $500 to $1,200. Students with higher financial need will receive the larger payments. Knox plans to distribute these funds to eligible students during the week of May 25. 

A portion of the CARES Act funds will also support the COVID-19 Student Relief Fund, which provides grants to eligible students for unanticipated COVID-related costs for travel, supplies, equipment associated with distance learning, and other eligible expenses to students. Requests for these grants can be made through Knox’s COVID-19 Relief Fund. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Which students are eligible for funding?

Students who meet the eligibility criteria for federal financial aid and who have the greatest financial need can be considered for these funds. Funding is being provided to students enrolled at Knox during the spring 2020 term, including graduating seniors.

Unfortunately, the U.S. Department of Education does not allow these funds to be used for international students or undocumented students. If you are a student from one of these groups, there are other types of emergency aid from Knox College available. Requests for these funds can be made through Knox’s COVID-19 Relief Fund.

How much will recipients of Emergency Financial Aid Grants receive?

Most Knox students with a federal Expected Family Contribution (EFC) of $20,000 or less can expect a payment ranging from $500 to $1,200. Students with higher financial need, including Pell Grant recipients, will receive the larger payments of $1,200.

When will Emergency Financial Aid Grants be distributed?

The Emergency Financial Aid Grant program is designed to get funds to students as quickly as possible. We anticipate distribution of the grants during the week of May 25.

How will I receive my Emergency Financial Aid Grant? 

Payments will be made directly to the bank account on file with the College. This is the same direct deposit account through which student employment wages are paid.

Students eligible for Emergency Financial Aid Grants received an email on May 12 with the direct deposit information we currently have on file. The email includes the bank and last four digits of the bank account number. Students should confirm that the bank account information is accurate and up-to-date.

If a student needs to add or update their direct deposit information, the email includes instructions on how to do this. Do not send banking information via email—it is not secure. 

How will Knox support students, including international or undocumented students who are not eligible for CARES Act funding but who need emergency support?

With the generous support of Knox alumni, parents, employees, and friends, Knox has established the COVID-19 Relief Fund. Students not eligible for CARES Act funds have received and can continue to receive emergency, need-based financial support directly from the College and our donors. Requests can be made through the COVID-19 Relief Fund form.